To supplement or not to supplement!
That is the question!
What are Chelated Minerals and
Amino Acid
CHELATED~(Keyi lated) This is the process by which mineral
substances are changed into their digestible form. Amino acid bound chelated mineral
supplements provide, three to ten times greater assimilation than common minerals do.
AMINO ACID CHELATED MINERALS
COPPER AMINO ACID CHELATE: A trace mineral found in all body tissue. It
works in respiration, synthesis of hemoglobin, and in the production of collagen. It is an
Antioxidant that helps protect blood and polyunsaturated fatty acids.
MANGANESE AMINO ACID CHELATE: Is a Trace mineral that is also an
important antioxidant that helps protect oxygen and slow aging. It activates many enzymes
and works with the utilization of fatty acids.
ZINC AMINO ACID CHELATE: Is a trace mineral found through out the body.
Zinc works with skin, hair, bones, muscles and blood. Zinc is important to a broad amount
of body functions from digestion to reproduction.
IRON AMINO ACID CHELATE: A mineral present in every living cell. It is
involved with blood and getting oxygen to it and in the digestion of fatty acids.
COBALT AMINO ACID CHELATE: An essential mineral, works with vitamin B12
and maintains the red blood cells.
CALCIUM: The most abundant mineral in the body. about 97% is utilized in
the bones and teeth. The balance is involved with muscle tissue, cells, blood.
PHOSPHORUS: The second most abundant mineral in the body.
It works with Calcium so it will effectively nourish bones and teeth. Every cell in the
body contains Phosphorus.
Herbs and Vitamin / Mineral Supplements
There are probably as many vitamin / mineral / herbal supplements for dogs as there are
for people. Dog owners can purchase complete vitamin / mineral / herbal preparations or
they can buy supplements containing one specific vitamin, mineral or herb.
When supplementing a commercial food, it's important to know what
vitamins and minerals the food contains and in what amounts, because with many vitamins
and minerals, too much is just as dangerous as too little. If you are in doubt as to what
your dog is getting from its food, call the dog food manufacturer and ask.
Especially Good Foods
Many foods are known to have special nutritional significance; others are known to have
medicinal properties. As with herbs, experts disagree as to exactly how important these
foods are. Again, if you want more information, or have any doubts, ask questions at your
local health food store, talk to your veterinarian.
Apples: We have all heard the saying "An apple a day keeps the
doctor away." Does that apply to dogs as well? Some experts think so. Apples are
packed with chemicals that have been shown to kill cancers in animals. Apples also inhibit
infectious disease and stabilize blood sugar. A slice or two of fresh apple makes a great
treat that many dogs will eagerly devour for the fruit's sweetness.
Barley: A grain an has recently been used more frequently in dog foods.
Barley is known to improve bowel function and is thought to possible inhibit cancer.
Broccoli: Known to inhibit cancer and is also a great source of many
vitamins, including vitamin A.
Carrots: Are a wonderful source of Beta Carotene, but they contain other
vitamins and trace minerals as well. Recent reports indicate that enzymes in raw carrots
reportedly kill harmful bacteria at the gum line. This harmful bacteria, if not killed is
eventually absorbed into the blood system. It then attaches to the valves in the heart.
Causing heart failure.
Cranberry Juice: Known to have beneficial effects on the urinary tract,
preventing infections and cystitis. Cranberry juice is also recognized as having strong
antiviral properties.
Fish: Especially saltwater fish, have a number of nutritional benefits.
Ingestion of as little as one ounce of saltwater fish daily is known to boost the immune
system, inhibit cancer, combat kidney disease and increase mental alertness.
Kelp: It is usually sold dried and ground to a fine powder, often encased
in gel capsules. Kelp is an excellent mineral supplement as it is high in iodine, calcium
and potassium as well as other trace minerals. kelp is also known to boost the immune
system and kill bacteria.
Yeast: Is a well-known food supplement; in fact, many dog foods contain
yeast as a primary ingredient. Yeast are fungi grown in a fermentation of carbohydrates
and are high in vitamins and minerals, especially the B vitamins. Brewer's yeast is the
most nutritious of the different kind of yeasts available.
Yogurt: Besides being a nourishing food on its own, yogurt contains
beneficial bacteria that improve bowel function. These bacteria help prevent intestinal
infections, prevent diarrhea and kill problem causing bacteria. Yogurt is also known to
boost the immune system and is thought to have anticancer properties.
Natural Bee Pollen: While not an herb, natural bee pollen is known to
boost the immune system. It is also said to provide some pain relief for dogs as well.
This is a by-product of the honey industry.
Ginger: Ginger root can be used to counter the effects if
motion sickness (car and sea sickness) the average dosage is one knuckle of the root. This
can be mixed into food or just chewed.
Herbs
Here are some Herbs and what they do.
Alfalfa: (Which means "the father of all foods") is full of
trace minerals and vitamins A, E, K, B, and D. It has also been used to alleviate the pain
and stiffness of arthritis and the discomfort of stomach ailments.
Aspergillus Niger: Is a natural digestive enzyme that helps break down
both plant and animal protein.
Bacillus Subtilis: Is a natural enzyme that helps digest both plant and
animal protein in the body. A probiotic, helps reduce stress, and help prevent sickness.
Brewers Yeast: One of the best sources of vitamin B. it aids in the
repelling of fleas. A probiotic, It also helps reduce stress and reduces sickness.
Dandelions: Are known to help the body filter toxins from the system.
Echinacea: Is an herb known by experts to stimulate the immune system, so
much that physicians are even recommending it to patients during flu season.
Fennel Seed: Stimulates proper stomach and intestinal functions.
Garlic: Has antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties. Whole
books have been written about the wonders of garlic, Garlic boost the immune system and
stimulates the internal organs, especially the liver and the colon, helping to rid the
body of toxins.
Ginseng: Often called a wonder drug. This root is known to strengthen the
heart, build general mental and physical vitality and stimulates the endocrine glands,
which control the body's systems. Ginseng is a preventative, which means it is not given
as a medicine but rather as a daily supplement.
Milk Thistle Seed: Use is to stimulate pproper liver and gallbalader
functions.
Papain: Comes from the Papaya. papain is a chemically similar to pepsin,
an enzyme that helps digest protein in the body. It is a safe and natural digestive aid.
Papaya contains vitamins, A, B, D, G, K, and C. Also contains calcium, iron, phosphorus,
potassium, magnesium and sodium.
Pau d' Arco: Have very strong anti-fungal and anti-yeast properties.
Peperment Leaf: Provides for relief of flatulence, intestinal colic and
stress
Red Clover: Is a stimulant for healing and is good for a recuperating or
older dog.
Reishi and Shlitake Mushrooms: Used to boost and support the immune
system and blood sugar regulation.
Rosemary: Is a stimulant of the circulatory system. It is also used to
treat bad breath and stimulating the hair bulbs to grow new hair.
Sage: Strengthens the mind and concentration abilities. It aids in
healing skin sores and skin eruptions and removing dandruff. It has been mostly employed
in disordered states of the digestion , as a stomachic.
Rose Hips: These are really not herbs in the true definition but are
instead the seed pods left after a rose blossom passes by. Rose hips are full of vitamins,
including A, B, E, K and more vitamin C than any other food we know - even more than
citrus fruits. However, rose hips should only be used when they are free of insecticides,
fertilizers and fungicides.
Siberian Ginseng Root: Increases resistance to allergies.
Yucca: Used for its reduction of both breath and stool
odor! a cleansing agent, Used by the Indians of the southwest for skin disorders, skin
eruptions and helps avoid inflammation.
Vitamin Sources
Vitamin 'A'
Dairy Products, leafy green vegetables, fish liver oil, carrots.
Vitamin 'B' Complex: Deficiency: fatigue, irritability, nervousness, hair loss, skin problems. Excess: Water soluble; when taken as a complex, excess is usually excreted in the
urine. Unusual excess can cause nerve damage, blood or digestive disorders.
Vitamin 'C' (Research ongoing and greatly debated) Deficiency: Impaired lactation,shortness of breath, swollen joints, slow healing,
poor dental condition. Excess: Water soluble; most excess excreted in the urine. High doses can result in
diarrhea.
Vitamin 'D' Deficiency: Rickets, bone diversities, poorly developed muscles,nervous
disorders,vision problems. Excess: Increased frequency of urination, nausea, vomiting, muscular weakness,
calcification of muscles, including the heart.
Vitamin 'E' Deficiency: Blood and bleeding disorders, collagen problems,amino acid breakdowns,
reduction in functioning of several hormones, reproductive failure. Excess: Generally considered nontoxic; however, can cause elevated blood pressure.
Vitamin 'K' Deficiency: Bleeding disorders, miscarriage. Excess: Generally considered nontoxic.
Sources of Minerals
Calcium: Meats, bone and bone meal, milk and milk products.
Chloride: Salt (sodium chloride), kelp.
Copper: Liver, whole grain products, leafy green vegetables, legumes.
Iodine: Fish, kelp.
Iron: Liver, oysters, fish lean meats, leafy green vegetables, whole
grains, legumes, molasses.
Magnesium: Green vegetables, raw whole grains, oil-rich seeds and nuts,
soybeans, milk.
Manganese: Whole grains,eggs, seeds and nuts, green vegetables.
Phosphorus: Meat, fish, poultry, eggs, whole grains, seeds and nuts.
Potassium: All vegetables, potatoes, bananas, whole grains, sunflower
seeds.
Selenium: Yeast, organ and muscle meats, fish, whole grains.
Sulfur: Deficiency: Slow or retarded growth, sluggishness, fatigue. Excess: Unknown.
Zinc: Deficiency:Retarded growth, delayed sexual maturity, diabetes, skin problems. Excess: Relatively nontoxic, but excessive intake may have harmful side effects.
If you think your dog is deficient in a vitamin or mineral. Before
you supplement ask your vet. for advise.
FOOD SUPLEMENTS
Mineral Supplements
We will take a quick look at the commonly supplemented minerals. Be
aware, before you read any further, that mineral supplementation of
commercial dog foods is generally ill advised, unless there is some
underlying medical condition.
Calcium.
Unfortunately, many dog fanciers supplement with
calcium. We hear, almost daily, that calcium supplementation in
humans is necessary as they age to prevent osteoporosis,
especially in women. We won't even go there--we are talking
dogs. Every dog food made has adequate calcium content.
There is no shortage of very inexpensive calcium available to the
manufacturers to put in their formulations. It is preposterous to
think that this would be an area in which supplementation is
warranted. In fact, high calcium intake is implicated in skeletal
disease. Yet, it remains common practice for breeders to
encourage puppy buyers to supplement commercial diets with
calcium. What you get are not strong puppies but increased
rates of osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) , enlarged joints,
dropped hocks, splayed feet, angular limb deformities,
wobbler's syndrome and stunted growth. , , Furthermore, high
levels of calcium in the diet have long been known to cause a
relative zinc deficiency in dogs. , While on the topic of zinc
deficiency, we note also that high levels of iron and copper also
interfere with zinc absorption. , If you are to take anything away
from this article, let it be to do no harm with supplements.
Calcium is a very dangerous supplement; one you should not
use except under the careful and participative guidance of your
veterinarian. Even then, it would be worthwhile to check the
nutritional credentials of your veterinarian. Not all veterinarians
are created equal, and few vet schools teach nutrition in any
significant amount. As an aside, dolomite is still available in
health food stores as a supplemental source of calcium. The
joke is on the uniformed buyer: dolomite is rock, relatively
insoluble and certainly not soluble in the gut during the time
normal for passage. However, it does make a wonderful acid
buffering substrate in marine aquaria. Calcium anyone?
Phosphorus
The calcium:phosphorus ratio of 1:1.2 or
thereabouts is sacred. Don't even think about messing about
with supplementary phosphorus, regardless of the claims that it
is necessary and without it you run the risks of rickets,
osteomalacia and even nutritionally induced
hyperparathyroidism. Over-supplementation of phosphorus can
remove calcium from bones. Phosphorus is found in meat,
poultry and fish, the very ingredients found in almost all dog
foods. You can buy it off the shelf, but we suggest you leave it
there.
Magnesium
Go ahead and pump magnesium into your dog.
Digestive and internal mechanisms regulate the level of
absorption and generally, no harm will be done. Given that
magnesium is found in soy, corn, other cereal grains and bone
meals, the very staples of commercial dog food, there will be no
shortage. On the other hand, magnesium figures prominently in
shelf space in healthfood stores, and if you own stock in a
company that packages magnesium for such a market, you
might want to buy some for your dog. Otherwise, forget
it--"Poocharelli" already is getting more magnesium than he can
utilize.
Sulfur
no deficiencies are reported in the dog. Don't bother
supplementing unless you have an excess of cash and near cash
assets and your dog will tolerate the taste.
Iron
Certainly there can be iron deficiencies that result in
various anemias, but they are not likely with commercial diets,
and not even likely with homebrew diets. How do you get iron
out of meat meals, bone, poultry and dairy products before you
feed your dog? The answer is that you don't. Therefore, absent
a special medical condition, iron supplementation is not
warranted. Leave iron supplements on the shelf at your
healthfood store.
Copper
Great in bracelets worn for decorations (but not for
therapeutic value) and great for remembrances of Vietnam
POW's, but poor as a dietary supplement. Copper is found in
organ meats, which are common ingredients in commercial dog
food. It is doubtfulthat you will ever have a valid reason to
supplement with copper.
Zinc
Unless your dog has a zinc responsive dermatosis, don't
even think about supplementing with zinc. An excess of zinc
causes calcium and copper deficiencies. Given that beef liver,
dark poultry meat, milk, egg yolks and legumes in general are
sources for zinc, no commercial food will ever be short of
zinc--too cheap, too abundant, and you can't get rid of it easily.
Manganese
Found in meat, poultry and fish, it is unlikely that
either a dietary excess or deficiency will exist in the dog fed a
commercial diet.
Iodine
Found in beef, liver and fish, it is unlikely that either a
dietary excess or deficiency will exist in the dog fed a
commercial diet.
Selenium
Found in grains, meat and poultry, it is unlikely that
either a dietary excess or deficiency will exist in the dog fed a
commercial diet. Selenium is paradoxical in that the symptoms
for excess and deficiency are the same. Considered a
micromineral, itoccupies the active site of the enzyme
glutathione peroxidase. This enzyme protects the body from
free radicals formed during oxidation of cell-membrane lipids.
Selenium has a synergistic relationship with Vitamin E. Vitamin
E keeps selenium at its most efficacious oxidation state and
selenium 'spares' Vitamin E.
Cobalt
Found
in fish and dairy products, it is unlikely that
dietary
excess or deficiency will be noted in dogs fed
commercial
diets.
Vitamin Supplements
Not
only can you get in trouble with mineral supplements; vitamin
supplements can be dangerous also. Vitamins are required by the dog
in minute amounts to function as enzymes, enzyme precursors or
co-enzymes in many of the dog's metabolic processes. Vitamins fall
into two general categories: water soluble (B-complex, C) and
fat-soluble (A,D,E,K). It is the fat-soluble vitamins that are dangerous
in excess, especially vitamins A and D.
Vitamin A
The origin of all vitamin A is the carotenoids in
plants such as carrots, sweet potatoes, deep green vegetables.
Several carotenoids provide vitamin A; however, beta-carotene
is the most common in foods. Note that dogs can convert
carotenoids to active vitamin A, and therefore do not require
animal sources of vitamin A in their diets. Vitamin A is seldom
found as a supplement because its components (retinol, retinal
and retinoic acid), are found in fish liver oils, milk, liver and egg
yolk. Excesses cause skeletal abnormalities and hyperesthesia.
Vitamin D
A protovitamin D, vitamin D3 is of importance to
omnivores and carnivores. Active vitamin D is synthesized by
the dog's body thus generating a small controversy over
whether vitamin D should be classified as a hormone or as a
vitamin. Exposure of the dog to sunlight results in conversion of
the precursor 7-dehydrocholesterol to cholecalciferol. Most
foodstuffs contain very little vitamin D, however fish liver oils,
egg yolks and liver are good sources. "Most commercially
prepared pet foodsare enriched with vitamin D to ensure that
dogs and cats receive adequate amounts of this vitamin
regardless of the amount of daily sunlight they receive."
Vitamin E
Vitamin E, the biological, chain-breaking
anti-oxidant not only neutralizes free-radicals, but prevents the
peroxidation of lipids within cellular membranes. Vitamin E and
selenium are synergistic. Optimum levels for the dog are still
being researched. Vitamin E is one vitamin with serious research
behind it to support its use as a supplement. It has been shown
to ameliorate the pain of osteoarthritis and recent research now
shows thatit has an analgesic effect in the treatment of
rheumatoid arthritis as well. Its mode of action is the same as
many NSAID's in that it inhibits the enzyme cyclooxinase and
prevents the formation of inflammatory products. The form of
Vitamin E is also important in terms of its efficacy. All natural
(RRR) Vitamin E is 50 % more bioavailable than the synthetic
form.
Vitamin K
This vitamin is necessary for blood coagulation can
is commonly given to dogs as an antidote for anti-coagulant rat
poisons. Dogs produce their own vitamin K through bacterial
synthesis in the intestine. Supplementation is not required.
Water Soluble Vitamins
B-Complex.
All that needs to be said about water-soluble
B-complex vitamins as they pertain to canine nutrition is that the
B-complex series of vitamins are seldom deficient in dogs. It is
possible to create a thiamin deficiency by feeding a diet of raw
fish, or a biotin deficiency by feeding large amounts of raw egg
whites. As the protein levels in the diet increase, the
requirements for vitamin B6, pyridoxine, increase, however a
diet so concentrated in protein would be most unusual.
Vitamin C (Ester-C)
The use of an exogenous source Vitamin C is controversial because
the dog is one of several mammals which has the ability to manufacture
ascorbic acid. (Though the dog makes the least amount of ascorbic
acid per kilogram of body weight of any animal who has that ability.)
There is a definite lack of peer reviewed citations with respect to its
use in dogs. However, one study mentioned in the Waltham book on
nutrition does show that blood plasma levels of vitamin C are
dramatically reduced in dogs exposed to oxidative stress. Oxidative
stress can include exposure to toxins, which involve pesticides and
cigarette smoke, and exercise. Performance dogs would be especially
benefit from supplementation. Clinical trials do support its use for
amelioration of pain, but the efficacy seems to depend on the form in
which this vitamin is taken. Calcium ascorbate has a neutral pH so
digestive upsets are avoided and it appears not to be flushed out of the
body as rapidly.
Nutritional Supplements
Bromelain
Extracted from the stem of the pineapple, this
product contains at least eight different protein-digesting
enzymes. Besides its ability to aid digestion, Bromelain appears
to inhibit the synthesis of the E2 prostaglandins
(pro-inflammatory) as seen in arthritic conditions. Clinical trials
have shown it to be effective in reducing swelling and pain due
to injury as well as enhanced healing after surgery. , Recent
studies have assessed its ability to reduce the size of malignant
tumors and it has also been evaluated for its antihelmetic activity
against roundworms. Current use of bromelain is for
preventative nutrition for the geriatric dog and in glandular
therapy.
Garlic (Allium sativum liliaceae)
Garlic is common in most
kitchens as a flavor enhancer. It figures prominently in both
western and eastern herbal medicine and is making its way into
the mainstream of western medicine. In Europe, garlic is
approved for cardiovascular conditions in humans with high
cholesterol and triglyceride levels. It contains a wide array of
sulfur-containing compounds (over 100) that have potential
health enhancing benefits. Garlic oil contains allicin; this is
subsequently converted by the digestive enzyme allinase to
allicin. This compound, like so many others which contain sulfur,
is thought have many antibiotic, immune enhancing and
anti-cancer properties due to their antioxidant capabilities. As a
natural antibiotic, garlic is remarkably potent, so potent, in fact
that one milligram of allicin is equal in effectiveness to 15
standard units of penicillin against a fairly wide range of
bacteria. Garlic also prevents platelet adhesion and has a
therapeutic effect on serum cholesterol levels and blood
pressure and helps to maintain aortic elasticity. Garlic and ginger
may have synergistic effects, and a combination of garlic and
ginger has been shown to be effective in reducing blood glucose
and serum lipids.
Ginger (Zingiber officinale Rose)
The health benefits of ginger
seem to stem from its antioxidant ability. However, it is best
known for its ability to aid digestion. It is thought tostimulate
digestion by improving intestinal muscle tone, initiating bile
secretion and soothing nausea. It also contains several
proteolytic (digestive) enzymes. Ginger snaps or cystalized
ginger, given a half hour before a car ride, will often
preventmotion sickness in dogs. Ginger is common in Oriental
medicine and is found in a significant number of the standardized
polyherbal preparations.
Ginseng
(Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer(Korean ginsing); Panax
quinquefolius L(American ginseng).; Panax schinseng Nees) -
With fewer than a dozen species, the genus Panax is not well
understood, there exists white and red varieties with the former
considered to have a higher antioxidant activity. Among the
active ingredients are several central nervous system stimulating
compounds and at least one that has a sedating effect. Ginseng
is probably the most heavily researched herb in the world and
numerous dog studies exist. Certainly, ginseng is one of the
most popular herbs of the Chinese, Korean, Russian and
Japanese medicinal traditions. In addition to it's antioxidant
properties, it is thought to spare glucose during exercise by
promoting fatty acids as a favored fuel source. Ginseng is
classified as an adaptogen as it not only supports adrenal
function, assists in maintaining normal blood sugar and
cholesterol levels, but also increases overall resistance to stress
and disease. Along with Vitamin E, ginseng appears to
counteract hepatic toxins and boosts the immune system by
promoting increased levels of helper T and natural killer cells.
Animal experiments have demonstrated that ginseng is an
immunostimulant. , Ginseng also stimulates protein synthesis in
the liver, which effects that organs ability to regenerate itself and
can increase red blood cell mitosis in the bone marrow.
Paradoxically, even thought the active compounds of this herb
have a very low absorptivity, ginseng seems to alter the
permeability of the intestinal mucosa (lining which contains
mucous secreting glands) and enhances drug and nutrient
absorption.
Milk Thistle
(Silybum marianum (L.) Gaertn) - Also known as
St.Mary thistle, lady's thistle and holy thistle this plant is best
known for its liver protective effects. The most active ingredient,
silymarin, appears to block uptake of toxins by the liver and
seems to be able to neutralize some toxins that have already
been absorbed. It is thought to stimulate new liver cell
production by promoting protein synthesis. Milk thistle acts like
an antioxidant and is a free radicalscavenger and several
researchers have found it many times more potent an
antioxidant than Vitamin E. It promotes the immune system, but
also inhibits the anti-inflammatory response by stabilizing the cell
membrane, much like Vitamin E. The two, Vitamin E and milk
thistle, taken together seem to have a synergistic effect.
Ginko
(Ginko biloba L.) - This herb has been used medicinally
for nearly 5,000 years, but only recently has emerged in Europe
as a billion dollar phytomedicinal. Recent research has focused
on its anti-inflammatory properties, especially with regard to
macular degeneration of the eye. It is especially effective against
degenerative neurological disorders that occur with age, i.e.,
Alzheimer's disease and is thus becoming an important herbal
medicine for geriatric patients. Ginko prevents platelet
aggregation and appears to improve circulation in the brain and
extremities. Humans who use this herb relate that it improves
their memory and their ability to concentrate.
Cranberry
(Vaccinium macrocarpon) - A native plant of North
America with no known toxicities. The fruit contains a variety of
organic acids, some of which have antioxidant properties. Often
suggested for use in prevention and treatment of lower urinary
tract infections, it was thought towork because it acidified the
urine; subsequent research has shown its mode of action is to
prevent adhesion of bacteria, such as Escherichia coli, to the
mucosal surfaces of the urinary tract. Blueberries appear to
exhibit similar effects.
Rosemary
(Rosmarinus officinalis) - Rosemary, best known as
a spice and flavor enhancer, is also an antioxidant. Along with
sage, rosemary has the has the highest antioxidant activity of any
of the spices. The most active ingredient is a phenolic
compound called carnosic acid. Like Vitamin C and selenium, it
has the ability to 'recycle' Vitamin E, thus extending that
vitamin's activity. Components of rosemary extract have the
potential to protect mouse liver and stomach from carcinogenic
or toxic agents, and may also have that property in dogs. A
great deal of research is being done with rosemary extract as a
lifelong supplement for the avoidance of various cancers.
Marigold extract
(Calendula officinalis L.) - The marigold
flower contains a carotenoid (a plant pigment) with no Vitamin
A activity but appears to have excellent antioxidant possibilities.
A great deal of research attention has been focused on this
compound, as it appears to ameliorate age related macular
degeneration of the eye. The same plant pigment is found in the
green leafy vegetables like spinach. Marigold extract has been
approved in Europe for treatment of slow-healing wounds, and
the extract is also thought to prevent certain cancers.
Yucca schidigera Extract
Although most commonly known for
its ability to ameliorate fecal aroma in both dogs and cats, the
yucca plant appears to have a variety of health benefits. This
plant has a long history of safe food use by Native Americans in
the southwest United States and also in Mexico. Like ginseng, it
seems that yucca maybe improve permeability of intestinal
mucosal cells to improve nutrient absorption, but is itself poorly
absorbed. The active ingredients are a variety of saponins (plant
surfactants) that may act as a prebiotic in the colon where they
are fermented by beneficial bacteria. These plant fibers may
effect cholesterol levels by stimulating bile acid excretion and
human studies indicate that both tryclyceride levels and blood
pressure is lowered by its use.
Grape Seed Extract
The grape seed proanthocyanidins (GSP)
are natural antioxidants with a wide spectrum of
pharmacological activity and which also protect cell membranes
from attack by free radicals. Free radicals are highly reactive
molecules in the body which can destroy tissues by oxidizing
cell membrane lipids and damaging DNA, the body's genetic
material. Current research is looking at its ability to inhibit tumor
cell growth and inhibit replication enzymes of HIV viruses. Not
only does it inhibit tumor growth, but it seems to ameliorate the
effects of chemotherapy and exposure to cigarette smoke as
well.
Glucosamine
Glucosamine is a constituent of cartilage and
appears to both stimulate the synthesis of proteoglycans and
inhibits their degredation. Proteoglycans are a high molecular
weight complex of protein and polymers of sugar which are a
component of structural tissues of vertebrates. Oral
supplementation appears to improvebone and joint health. ,
Chromium polynicotinate
This compound is a coordination
complex (a metal ion surrounded by several organic molecules)
that seems to mimic the configuration of a naturally-occurring
substance called Glucose Tolerance Factor (GTF). , Although
first characterized in 1929, the significance of this molecule was
initially overlooked until Dr. Walter Mertz 'rediscovered' it in
the 1960's when he isolated a niacin-bound chromium complex
from yeast extracts. GTE facilitates the attachment of insulin to
its receptor sites. The binding of insulinthen leads to the
increased uptake of glucose (blood sugar). In other words, this
molecule regulates blood sugar levels. This supplement is
especially useful for diabetics but is very effective in overcoming
a condition called insulin resistance which is often present in
obese mammals. Insulin resistance causes hyperinsulinemia
which can increase the risk of heart disease and predisposes
one to diabetes mellitus. This why obesity is such a significant
factor for the onset of this disease.
(-) Hydroxycitrate
Obtained from the fruit rind of the Indian
Garcinia cambogia tree, this compound has been used for
centuries by the people of South Asia as a flavor enhancer,
food preservative and to suppress the appetite. It is sometimes
used as a purgative in the treatment of intestinal worms and
other parasites, for tumors, for dysentery and for other digestive
upsets. Much of the modern research about its anti-obesity
effects were undertaken by a pharmaceutical company in an
attempt to create a class of patentable synthetic anorectics. It is
not a CNS stimulant. Instead, its mode of action is to inhibit the
activity of an enzyme called ATP-citrate lyase. Without this
enzyme, fatty acid cholesterol synthesis is blocked
becausecertain key components cannot be transported through
the cell membrane. Thus, excess calories are directed away
from fat production and towards glycogen (another form of
glucose stored in the liver) production and storage. This in turn
produces a feeling of fullness and satiation. Eating less will help
prevent obesity if the dog has a normal metabolism.
Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids
Commercial dog foods
contain polyunsaturated fats with both omega-3 and omega-6
fatty acids. Sources of omega-6 are: linoleic acid from corn,
safflower, sunflower, cottonseed and soy oils. Sources of
omega-3 are: alpha-linolenic acid from cold waterfish oils,
whole fat flax. The use of omega-3 enriched dietary products
has become popular in the treatment of inflammatory skin
disorders. Dogs cannot convert one type of fatty acid to
another, so it is essential that certain omega-3 and omega-6
fatty acids are available in the diet as they are essential for
maintaining normal skin structure and function. The optimal ratio
of omega-6 to omega-3 is between 5:1 and 10:1.
"Supplementing a dog's regular diet with omega-3 fatty acids
may not be effective in decreasing inflammatory potential
because the exact quantities and ratio of fatty acids in the dog's
regular diet are usually not known. As a result it is very difficult
to achieve an effective fatty acid profile through
supplementation." Numerous studies suggest that the
omega-6:omega-3 ratio is more important that the quantity of
essential fatty acids once basic nutritional requirements have
been met. Let us stress again that it is the RATIO of these two
fatty acids that is the mostimportant component. The proper
ratio diverts the production of inflammatory prostaglandins to
the anti-inlammatory products. If you are having problems with
your dog's skin condition, you would be better advised to try
one of the veterinary diets with a controlled omega-6:omega-3
ratio than attempting to adjust the ratio through supplements.
Co-enzyme Q 10 - To be accurate this product cannot be
considered a food supplement. Instead you must regard it a
component of the dog's energy transduction system (conversion
of food into energy storage). When the body breaks down
food, it stores the inherent chemicalenergy in a high energy
chemical bond. It does this by passing electrons down a chain
of proteins that are stored in the membrane of tiny cells called
mitochondria. During aging, the dog's ability to maintain this
process slows down but we are able to preserve this process
by supplementation with co-enzyme Q10. It is also especially
effective for immproving the immune response, an energy
intensive process, and for cardiomyopathies.
Conclusions
While sources abound for information on supplements, we caution
readers that not all sources are reliable. The majority of the popular
literature is suspect, with little of it having scientific basis. With that
caveat, we recognize most western medicines have botanical origins
and that nutrition is an essential path to good health. Amongst the
chaff, there are many grains of wheat. For those looking into
supplements, especially those in the "health food" category for their
pets, we recommend caution, and urge you to seek out those
supplements, such as listed in this article, which demonstratively have a
scientific basis for their claims. Supplements are not the way to
compensate for a poor diet; change the diet instead.
